In brief

Pope prays for victims of massive earthquake

Francis has said he is “deeply saddened” by news of an earthquake along the Iran-Iraq border that has left hundreds dead. In a telegram signed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, he assured all those affected of his “prayerful solidarity”.

Shrine bombed by the US is to be rebuilt

A diocese in northern Vietnam is to begin rebuilding the Hai Duong Martyrs Church, once the biggest in South-East Asia, 50 years after it was bombed in the Vietnam War.

Religious Sisters kidnapped in Nigeria

Three sisters were abducted in Nigeria on Sunday. Their order, the Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy, is appealing for prayers.

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